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Cucumber Salad with Quick Pickled Onions

Crisp cucumbers and tangy quick-pickled red onions are tossed together in a bright vinegar brine for a refreshing side dish that's perfect for summer meals, cookouts, sandwiches, and grilled favorites.
Prep Time1 hour 50 minutes
Servings4
Calories: 55kcal

Ingredients

For the Quick Pickled Onions

  • 1 large red onion thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup white vinegar
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1-2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 small garlic clove smashed or thinly sliced
  • ½-1 tsp mustard seed
  • pinch black peppercorns lightly cracked

For the Salad

  • 2-3 cucumbers thinly sliced
  • pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1-2 tsp olive oil for finishing
  • pinch celery seed (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Quick Pickled Onions

  • Add the sliced red onions to a bowl or jar.
  • In a separate bowl, stir together the white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Add the garlic, mustard seed, and peppercorns.
  • Pour the brine over the onions and toss to coat. Let sit for 20 to 30 minutes until the onions soften and turn bright pink.

Step 2: Add the Cucumbers

  • Add the sliced cucumbers directly to the bowl with the pickled onions and brine.
  • Toss everything together so the cucumbers are evenly coated. Let the salad sit for 10 to 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Finish and Serve

  • Give the salad one final toss before serving.
  • If desired, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with red pepper flakes or celery seed. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Recipe Notes & Tips

  • 🥒 English cucumbers work especially well because they have fewer seeds and tender skin.
  • 🥒 For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes before serving.
  • 🥒 Adjust the sugar to your taste depending on how tangy or sweet you prefer the brine.
  • 🥒 The pickled onions can be made up to 3 days in advance.

Storage

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cucumbers will soften over time but will stay flavorful.